Sustainability Update

Did You Know?

Wednesday, Apr. 1, 2009

SCU energy consumption has decreased by 14 percent since 2003

SCU has sustained an aggressive program to increase energy efficiency and decrease campus energy consumption. We have installed solar panels, upgraded lighting systems, switched to more efficient heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems, and centralized building system management. Between 2003 and 2008 the University decreased energy consumption by 14 percent despite a simultaneous 12 percent increase in campus size.

The University plans to further reduce energy consumption through the following institutional measures.

Thermostat set points will be adjusted to conserve energy.

Non-essential buildings' thermostat set points will be reset at 11:00 pm daily to further conserve energy.

The Utilities Department will monitor peak loading and initiate load shedding actions as necessary, and most load shedding actions will go unnoticed by the campus community.

Beginning in July, building cleaning will start at 5:00 am rather than 10:30 pm so that the custodians will work during more daylight hours and require less artificial lighting.

To drastically reduce SCU campus energy consumption, we need more than operational changes. Here are a few tips to help the University conserve energy and dollars.

If every computer is simply turned off when not in use, we can save over $50,000 a year.

Lights account for 20-40 percent of a building's electricity consumption. By turning of unnecessary lights, we can substantially reduce energy usage.

Dress appropriately for the weather by wearing layers for cool mornings and shedding them in the warmer afternoons. Food and beverages you consume can contribute to your comfort - grab a cold or hot drink depending on how you feel.

Help Facilities! If you notice incidents of wasted energy or have suggestions for further reductions, please contact Facilities (554-4742 or Facilities-CSC@scu.edu).